almost choked on my drink. I was expecting a request for rent money, not a brand-new vehicle. Lauren gave an Oscar-worthy performance of humility. “I mean, I wasn’t going to ask, but it would make things so much easier. Just something simple, like a used Civic.” My mother jumped in. “It’s not that much to ask, sweetheart. You’re doing so well, it wouldn’t even make a dent in your finances.” I put down my fork. “I’m not buying her a car.